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Kimberlee Beckmen is the only veterinarian at Alaska's Department of Fish and Game. The Illinois native monitors the health of the state's wildlife population and the best part of her job, she says, is preventing unnecessary wildlife deaths. "Satisfying is when I investigate wildlife mortalities ... and am able to figure out why the animal died, especially when it can prevent further deaths."

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Researchers say laser therapy may help dogs recover faster from snake bites. Colorado State University veterinarians are studying whether lasers can reduce pain and swelling and improve recovery time for dogs. "If research shows that the therapy helps, it could be provided to animals as a low-cost, safe and effective treatment that could significantly reduce long-term damage and suffering," said lead researcher Dr. Narda Robinson.

Heather Sandler is a rare breed of veterinarian in upstate New York: She makes house calls. The Utica-based doctor runs Dr. Heather's House Calls, providing preventative care and other services, including in-home euthanasia. "Animals act differently at the clinic because they're stressed," she says. "They'll act more natural in their home environment."

The Nebraska State Fair announced it will require cattle entering the fairgrounds to be tested for BVD-PI this year in an effort to prevent its spread. Though the state does not require all cattle to be tested for bovine virus diarrhea, the state veterinarian supports the move. "BVD-PI is potentially a high-impact disease that can cause abortions in bred animals if a susceptible animal comes in contact with a positive animal," said state veterinarian Dr. Dennis Hughes.

Veterinarians can play a role in helping the public understand the measures livestock producers use to protect animals. Gail Golab, AVMA director of animal welfare, in an interview with AgriTalk host Mike Adams, said producers should engage the public more in their animal welfare decisions. "Finding ways to communicate between the urban environment and the rural environment is incredibly important," Golab said.

The drought in north Texas may be the catalyst for an increase in rabies cases, as veterinarians and state health officials say rabid wild animals are driven by thirst to find water in more populated areas. There have been 51 rabies cases in the north Texas area since January, compared with 25 in the same period last year.